Chilcoot

Star4.67
83 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

5,100 ft

Price

$30 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open from May 23 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Outdoors in Plumas site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Chilcoot
$30.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rates vary based on the season: $34 during peak season (May 23 - September 6) and $30 during first-come, first-served season (September 7...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
530-836-2575jackjodyparker@yahoo.com
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What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 83 reviews

3 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciouslocationlakefriendly

"The campground is well-loved for its natural beauty, proximity to a creek, and serene environment. User reviews highlight spacious sites, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. "The sound of the creek is soothing," mentioned one camper."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Chilcoot

39.8656, -120.1661

Driving directionsFrom Reno, Nevada, travel north on Highway 395. Merge onto Highway 70 west and continue 5 miles to Chilcoot. Turn north on Highway 284 and continue 5 miles to the campground.
Paved roads are available to the campground. Seasonal closures may apply during winter months.
Nearby places
Chilcoot (approx. 5 miles), Loyalton (approx. 10 miles), Reno (approx. 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Stores for groceries and camping supplies are located in Chilcoot and Loyalton, approximately 5 to 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Chilcoot

Experience the best of high-country camping with Chilcoot's inviting summer climate, where temperatures dance between a refreshing 59°F in the morning to a comfortable 87°F in the afternoon. Crystal-clear skies dominate the season, creating perfect conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, though adventurers should note that road access becomes challenging during the colder months.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Peak season; pleasant temps (59–87°F), creek and lake activities most popular in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open through Sept 28 with good late-summer/early-fall conditions and fewer crowds after peak.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Campground closed until May 23; spring season not offered on-site.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 23–Sept 28; winter activities mentioned infrequently.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 - September 6. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 23 to September 28 with peak season lasting until September 6.

About Chilcoot

Discover your perfect mountain retreat at Chilcoot Campground, where the gentle melody of Last Chance Creek creates a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. Nestled within the expansive Frenchman Lake Recreation Area, this hidden gem strikes the perfect balance between lake accessibility and peaceful seclusion. Here, pine-scented breezes and starlit nights await those seeking an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience.
Chilcoot Campground offers options for tent camping and RV camping. A mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites are available. Some sites are designated as tent-only.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Chilcoot Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and water-based activities at nearby Frenchman Lake. The creek running through the campground itself provides opportunities for small-scale water play and relaxation.
HikingHiking opportunities in the surrounding area include trails and forest roads. The nearby Little Last Chance Scenic Area offers picturesque routes through ancient lava flows.
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with access to Last Chance Creek and Frenchman Lake. One user review highlighted fishing: "Close to the stream for fishing!"
SwimmingSwimming is available in the nearby Frenchman Lake. The creek running through the campground is shallow and suitable for small children to play.
BoatingBoating activities, including kayaking and motorized boating, are available at Frenchman Lake, which is less than three miles away.
Wildlife viewingThe area is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears. Visitors are advised to follow bear safety practices.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are present in the area; bear safety measures are recommended. Seasonal fire hazards may exist.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant containers are provided at all campsites to safely store food and other items.

Weather at Chilcoot

Reviews

4.7
83 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Chilcoot is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is well-loved for its natural beauty, proximity to a creek, and serene environment. User reviews highlight spacious sites, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. "The sound of the creek is soothing," mentioned one camper.
Review Summaries
Based on 83 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the scenic creek, spacious campsites, and the campground's location near Frenchman Lake. Many users also praised the helpful and friendly camp hosts.
Based on 83 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of showers, occasional issues with locked restrooms, and some grievances about new management policies, such as the $8 extra vehicle fee.
Based on 83 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

For the best experience, choose sites near the creek. Bring all necessary supplies as the campground is remote, with limited nearby services. Download maps in advance due to lack of cell service.
Based on 83 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with many visitors enjoying the creek and proximity to Frenchman Lake. Winter activities are also available but are less frequently mentioned in reviews.
Based on 83 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The hosts were very nice, some of the guests were a little loud after hours," "Clean bathrooms, no showers," and "The creek is nice, and there is a small area for children to play in shallow water."
Based on 83 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #7 is often highlighted as a top choice, located along the river and described as spacious. Site #3 is noted for accessibility.
Based on 83 reviews

Accessibility Features

Site #3 is wheelchair-accessible and praised for its proximity to the creek. "The camp host, Reta is exceptional. She is friendly and helpful," wrote one user.
Based on 83 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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